Classical MV

Heather O’Connell

Hometown/current town: Originally from Hamburg, NY; currently Oneida, NY Instruments: Piano is her main instrument. Also a diehard chorister and was a percussionist from middle school to college, specializing in mallet instruments. Age when began music: Has been singing since she could talk. Started official piano lessons at age 4 Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education, with an emphasis in piano and vocal music, from Crane School of Music @SUNY Potsdam (1993 grad); Master’s Degree in Music Education from SUNY Fredonia (Completed in 1997) Current position: High School Vocal Music Director at Oneida High School for 10 years. Prior to that, taught Elementary General Music and Chorus in Oneida for 18 years. Also an accompanist for the Oneida Area Civic Chorale for 28 years, as well as an accompanist for a variety of All County Choruses, Area-All State Choirs, NYSSMA soloists, and local high school musicals. Collaborations: As a choral director, she has had the privilege of preparing students to perform alongside Grammy-award winning artists Melba Moore, The Alumni Ensemble of Harlem from NYC, and Kenny Rogers. As an accompanist, she has had the opportunity to work alongside some truly remarkable musical/ choral directors, including: Jeff Welcher (former OHS choral director), Kimberly Nethaway (former OACC director), Dr. John Warren (Director of Choral Activities at Setnor School of Music, Syracuse University), and José (Peppie) Calvar (Assistant Director of Choral Activities at Setnor School of Music, Syracuse University), to name a few. Personal influences: I have had some really wonderful teachers throughout my life who helped shape me into the person I am today. Honestly, I am most positively influenced by watching so many incredibly talented colleagues, both at the public/ private school and collegiate levels, simply do what they love - teaching music! They truly inspire me to want to be the very best at whatever it is I’m doing.

Giving people, most especially young people, the opportunity to perform, when done correctly and regardless of ability, has the power to foster within them a sense of joy, accomplishment, acceptance, confidence, love, and belonging. There is no greater gift we can give them than that.

SHAW’S

MAPLE PRODUCTS

Find our syrup & products at local stores and our new store at 7945 Maxwell Rd., Clinton

(visit our website for retail locations)

V

The Olde w Kountry Market

Your Source for:

Gift Boxes-Shipped! Homemade Pies Bulk Foods & Spices Canned Goods, Candies, Jams, Deli Meats & Cheeses, Yogurt, Baked Goods, Outdoor Furniture, Gifts & More!